Since I was a child, I have been eerily fascinated by the tragic story of ancient Pompeii.  A thriving city built in the shadow of Mt Vesuvius until A.D79, when it was suddenly destroyed as the volcano erupted violently.  In 1748 a group of explorers re-discovered the remains of the city, and its people.  I had seen images of the plaster casts that were taken of the people and animals caught in the last moments of their lives, which brought their story to life in such a vivid way.  For as long as I can remember I had wanted to travel to Italy and see the ruined city that was frozen in time by the ominous Mt Vesuvius.